Table

ABSTRACT

A table has a substantially plate-like top plate, a pair of beams arranged side by side on the lower surface of the top plate and supporting and fixing the top plate, and supporting bodies arranged on the pair of beams so as to lie in the longitudinal direction of the pair of beams and supporting and fixing the pair. The supporting bodies have on the upper portion thereof a substantially horizontal pair of first placement surfaces and a pair of second placement surfaces extending from the first placement surfaces and inclined in the lateral direction of the beams. The beams each have a top plate supporting surface to which the top plate is fixed, a first bottom surface which is, at least in the area supported by the supporting bodies in the longitudinal direction, supported in a contacting manner by a first placement surface, and a second bottom surface extending from the first bottom surface, inclined, and supported in a contacting manner by a second placement surface.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a table used in a working space such as an office and the like or in a reception room, an adjusting mechanism for furniture used in a working space such as an office and the like or in a reception room, a table equipped with this mechanism, and a structure which is formed on a structural object such as a fixture and is arranged vertical to a floor and aims to fix this structural object to a surface.

The present application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-287881 filed on Nov. 5, 2007, Japanese Patent Application No. 2007-287882 filed on Nov. 5, 2007, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-011563 filed on Jan. 22, 2008 which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a structure for a table used in a working space such as an office and the like or in a reception room where a top plate is fixed on a plurality of supporting members to support this top plate and load added thereto with the aid of rigidity of the top plate so as not to bend (see JP 2003-204827A for example).

There is also a structure for a table where a top plate is fixed on a beam bridged over a plurality of supporting members for supporting a top plate and load added thereto with the aid of rigidity of the beam or of rigidity of the top plate and the beam so as not to bend (see JP 2000-279247A for example).

Lately, in the above type of table, it has been demanded to minimize the number of supporting members and the length of each member while keeping necessary rigidity of the table, from the point of easiness of handling and design.

It is necessary for the table used in a working space such as an office and the like or in a reception room to set horizontally even if floor is declined. Thus, it is desirable that the table is equipped with an adjusting mechanism for adjusting its height and horizontal degree.

This adjusting mechanism consists of a base directly abutted to a floor, an adjusting bolt protruding upwards from the base for supporting a furniture body, and an adjusting nut to adjust the height with respect to the adjusting bolt for supporting a furniture body. The furniture is supported by a plurality of this adjusting mechanism (see JP6-052585U, JP4-023445U and JP48-095970U, for example). It is possible to adjust the height and horizontal degree of a level for supporting a furniture body by adjusting a position of the adjusting nut with respect the adjusting bolt of the adjusting mechanism. Since the adjusting bolt is held to articulate to the base, an angular position of the base can be adjusted with respect to the adjusting bolt. Thus, even if the floor is declined, it is possible to tilt the base and to abut an entire bottom surface of the base onto the floor while directing the adjusting bolt vertically.

With regard to technique for fixing an article to a surface of a fixture such as furniture and the like perpendicular to a floor, it is generally known to screw a bolt into a threaded hole formed in a surface via a through hole of this article or to adhere an article to a surface, etc. These are easy ways to fix an article to a surface. However, in case that an article is required to fix and remove repeatedly or to fix in such a manner that a fixing position may be altered over a surface in the lateral direction (i.e. horizontally), it is necessary to peel the adhesion or to bore a plurality of threaded holes over the surface in the lateral direction. These cause appearance of the surface to deteriorate.

On the other hand, it has been proposed that an engaging groove is formed to engage with an engagement piece disposed on an article, so that a fixing position of the article (i.e. member for supporting a cover) may be altered over a fixing surface (i.e. plate for fixing an article) in the lateral direction (see JP 2004-167125A, for example).

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

It is occasionally required that a table used in a working space such as an office and the like or in a reception room has a top plate elongated along one direction so as to be used by many people in a conference and the like. However, to minimize the number of supporting members to be arranged while employing an elongated top plate, a top plate becomes too thick and heavy in such a table as described in JP 2003-204827A wherein the top plate and the load added thereto are supported with the aid of rigidity of the top plate. This causes the whole weight of table to increase and the top plate to be hard to assemble.

As described in JP 2000-279247A, it is possible to minimize the thickness of top table and to make the whole weight of a table lighter than that of the table as aforementioned in JP 2003-204827A. However, the beam becomes heavier in association with the broadening of interval between the supporting members. This makes it difficult to lift the beams and to fix the latter in a predetermined position on the supporting members, so that the beams are harder to assemble.

According to adjusting mechanisms as described in JP6-052585U, JP4-023445U and JP48-095970U, the floor on which furniture is set is supposed to support the weight of furniture within the range covered by a base of each adjusting mechanism and to be subjected to a substantial point load. Thus, when the furniture is heavy, the floor is dented and/or damaged within the range pressed by the adjusting mechanism. Besides, in case that the furniture is heavy, it is feared that the adjusting bolt and the adjusting nut both of which directly support a furniture body are damaged. If the number of adjusting mechanism increases, the problems incurred by the aforementioned adjusting mechanisms should be solved because a load per an adjusting mechanism is alleviated. However, the labor and time are required to adjust all of the adjusting mechanisms for adjusting the height and horizontal degree of furniture.

Moreover, a structure for fixing an article (a member for supporting a cover) as described in JP2004-167125A has been difficult to position the latter accurately since this structure has no means for positioning an article to an engaging groove in the lateral direction (horizontally).

The present invention is made under above circumstances to provide a table wherein its beams are easy to assemble onto supporting members even if the interval between supporting members is broad and the weight of beam increases, and wherein the beam is securely supported by the supporting members and fixed thereto after assembling has been completed.

Furthermore, the present invention is made under above circumstances to provide an adjusting mechanism and a table equipped with the same wherein the weight of a furniture body is added to a floor without damaging the latter and wherein it is easy to adjust the height and horizontal degree of the furniture even if a floor is declined.

Moreover, the present invention is made under above circumstances to provide a structure for fixing an article accurately to a desired position in its engaging groove.

Means to Solve the Problem

To solve the aforementioned problem, the present invention provides the following means.

A first aspect of the present invention relates to a table comprising: a substantially rectangular top plate; a plurality of beams disposed side by side for supporting and fixing the top plate; and a plurality of supporting members disposed in the longitudinal direction of the beams for supporting and fixing the pair of beams, wherein the supporting members has, in order from its upside to downside, a pair of substantially horizontal first set surfaces and a pair of second set surfaces continued from the first set surfaces and sloping down in the width direction of the beams, and wherein the beam has a surface for supporting the top plate, on which the top plate is installed; a first bottom surface to be abutted to and supported by the first set surface of the supporting member at least within the range supported by the supporting members in the longitudinal direction; and a second bottom surface continued and sloping down from the first bottom surface in such a manner as to be abutted to and supported by the second set surface of the supporting member at least within the range supported by the supporting members in the longitudinal direction.

According to the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention, the first bottom surface is abutted to and fixed by the first set surface. Additionally, the second bottom surface is abutted to and fixed by the second set surface. Thus, a pair of beams is securely supported by the supporting members and fixed thereto. Besides, the top plate is abutted to and fixed on the surfaces of the pair of beams for supporting the top plate, which in turn are supported by the supporting members. Thus, the top plate is supported by the beams even with minimum thickness in such a manner as not to bend, even if the span of the supporting members 30 broadens.

Collecting the supporting members, beams and the top plate are carried out as follows. First, a plurality of supporting members is disposed side by side while a predetermined interval is kept. The beam which has been collected near the supporting members is lifted and moved up to over the supporting members. Keeping the beam lifted, the worker roughly positions it relative to the supporting members. Then, the worker let the beam down. While the supporting member has a sloping second set surface, the beam has a corresponding second bottom surface. Thus, even if the beam is slightly offset to the supporting member in the width direction, the beam, of which second bottom surface has been abutted to the second set surface of the supporting member, slides down along the sloping second set surface on account of its weight. Accordingly, there is no need for the worker to execute a fine tuning and he is able to guide the beam to a predetermined fixing position on an upper part of the supporting member. Guided to a predetermined fixing position, the beam is abutted to the substantially horizontal first set surface of the supporting member via its first bottom surface. Consequently, the beam is accurately set to a predetermined fixing position on an upper part of the supporting member and is securely supported. After the beam has been fixedly secured to the supporting member, the top plate is set on the top-plate supporting surface of the beam and fixed thereto, enabling the supporting member, the beam and the top plate to be integral with each other.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that the first set surfaces are formed to be continued from upper edges of the second set surfaces; wherein the supporting members have a pair of substantially horizontal third set surfaces continued from lower edges of the second set surfaces; and wherein the beams have a third bottom surface abutted to and supported by the third set surfaces.

In this case, while the beam is abutted to and supported by the supporting member via the sloping second set surface, the beam is also abutted to and supported by the supporting member via the substantially horizontal first third set surfaces which are positioned both at an upper and lower edge of the second set surface so that the beam is supported more stably. In the step of attaching the beam to the support body, the beam is guided in such a manner as to slide down on the sloping second set surface and as to be abutted to the first and third set surfaces via its first and third bottom surfaces, respectively, at a fixing position, thereby allowing the beams to be positioned more accurately.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that on the third set surface of the support body a stopper is attached to engage with the beam in the width direction.

In the step of attaching the beam to the support body, the beam is guided in such a manner as to slide down on the sloping second set surface and as to be abutted to the first set surfaces via its first bottom surfaces at a fixing position, while the beam engages with the stopper in the width direction. Thus, the beam is allowed to be positioned more accurately.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that the pair of beams is secured to the supporting members within the range where the first bottom surfaces are abutted to the first set surfaces and within the range where the second bottom surfaces are abutted to the second set surfaces.

In this case, the first and third bottom surfaces of the beams are secured to the first and third set surfaces of the supporting member. Thus, the beam is allowed to be connected more firmly.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that the pair of second set surfaces is formed in such a way that their slope directions are different from each other in the width direction.

In this case, while the beam is supported by the sloping second set surface of the supporting members, horizontal force acts on the supporting member, two horizontal forces generated by each beam cancel mutually since the slope directions of the pair of second set surfaces corresponding to a pair of beams are different from each other in the width direction. Thus, the top plate and the beams are supported by the supporting member more stably.

It is preferable in the table related to the first aspect of the present invention that each of said pair of second set surfaces is formed to extend from the outside toward the inside with a downward gradient, so that an upper surface of said supporting member is recessed.

In the step of attaching a pair of beams to the supporting members, each beam is lifted at outsides of both supporting members and moved from towards inside in the width direction. Then, the beam is set on the second set surface, allowing the beam to slide down along the sloping second set surface towards inside in the width direction and to be guided to a predetermined fixing position. Consequently, the beam is attached to the supporting member more easily.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that the beam has a sloping surface extending in the longitudinal direction and including the second bottom surface.

In this case, at the upper part of the beam, the top plate is securely supported to by the top-plate supporting surface within a wider range in the width direction. Additionally, even when the users are seated and their legs advance under the top plate, the beam does not interfere with them.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that the outermost supporting member among the supporting members disposed in the longitudinal direction is positioned inside of the short end of the top plate in the longitudinal direction; and that the beam is formed to extend outward from the supporting member in the longitudinal direction in such a manner that its short end slopes down inwards from the top-plate supporting surface in the longitudinal direction.

In this case, while the supporting member is positioned inside of the short end of the top plate in the longitudinal direction, the beam is formed to extend outward from the supporting member in the longitudinal direction, allowing the top plate to be securely supported in the longitudinal direction. On the other hand, while the supporting member is positioned inside of the short end of the top plate in the longitudinal direction, the protruding short end of the beam slopes down inwards from the top-plate supporting surface in the longitudinal direction, allowing the users seated at the short end of the top plate to advance their legs under the top plate without any hindrance from the beam and the supporting member.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that the beam is formed to extend in such a manner that its outer long edge in the width direction is substantially coplanar with ends of the support bodies in the width direction.

In this case, the beam is formed to extend in such a manner that its outer long edge in the width direction is substantially coplanar with ends of the support bodies in the width direction, allowing the top plate to be supported within a wider range in the width direction. Thus, the top plate is allowed to be prevented from bending more effectively.

It is preferable in the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention that a cable space is formed between the pair of beams; and that a cable channel is formed in the top plate in such a manner as to communicate the cable space with a space upside of the top plate.

In this case, a cable of electric appliances to be used on the top plate is allowed to lie inside a cable space formed between a pair of beams via a cable channel and afterwards to be closed by the top plate. Thus, while the electric appliances are free to use on the top plate, its cable can be hidden from sight, thereby allowing the top plate to look clean during use.

A second aspect of the present invention relates to an adjusting mechanism disposed between a floor and a furniture body and adapted to adjust the height and horizontal degree of the furniture body, comprising: a support plate set on the floor and positioned under the furniture body; an adjusting bolt arranged in such a manner as to protrude from the support plate towards the furniture body and as to articulate with respect to the support plate; an adjustment threaded hole arranged in the furniture body in such a manner to be tightened to the adjusting bolt, allowing the adjusting bolt to advance or retract relatively; and a fixing bolt fastened to one of the furniture body and the support plate and allowed to be abutted to the other.

According to the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention, in the step of adjusting the height and horizontal degree of the furniture body, while the adjusting bolt is allowed to advance or retract relative to the adjustment threaded hole, the angular position of the support plate is adjusted with respect to the adjusting bolt. The height and horizontal degree of the furniture body is kept adjusted in this way only by allowing the fixing bolt to proceed from one of the furniture body and the support plate toward the other and to abut thereto. While the height and horizontal degree of the furniture body is kept adjusted, the furniture body is supported not only by the adjusting bolt but also by the fixing bolt, thereby allowing the weight of the furniture body to disperse and to be supported by both types of bolt. Furthermore, the load added by the furniture body is dispersed over a lower surface of the support plate and supported by the floor, thereby not allowing the floor to be damaged.

It is preferable in the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention that it comprises at least two fixing bolts.

In this case, while two fixing bolts are, the horizontal degree of the furniture body is securely kept adjusted by the adjusting bolt.

Moreover, with respect to the number of the adjusting bolts for adjusting the height, it is possible to increase the number of the fixing bolts which are advanced from one of the furniture body and the support plate toward the other and abutted thereto. In other words, it is possible to keep the times of adjusting minimum, while increasing the number of members for supporting the furniture body.

It is preferable in the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention that it comprises a plurality of sets of the adjusting bolt and the adjustment threaded hole arranged substantially linearly on the support plate.

In this case, a plurality of sets of the adjusting bolt and the adjustment threaded hole is arranged, thereby increasing the number of members for supporting the furniture body. Besides, these sets are arranged substantially linearly, allowing the horizontal degree of the furniture body in the direction of arrangement of these sets to be adjusted by adjusting each adjusting bolt. Further, the horizontal degree of the furniture body in the direction perpendicular to the direction of arrangement of these sets is allowed to be adjusted by adjusting the angular position of the support plate for each adjusting bolt.

It is preferable in the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention that the support plate includes a frame-like first enclosure elevated from the support plate toward the furniture body and adapted to enclose the adjusting bolt and the fixing bolt.

Otherwise, it is preferable in the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention that the support plate includes a frame-like first enclosure hanging down from the furniture body toward the support plate and adapted to enclose the adjusting bolt and the fixing bolt.

In this case, the first enclosure is adapted to enclose the adjusting bolt and the fixing bolt, thereby allowing the adjusting bolt 62 and the fixing bolt 64 to be only minimally exposed from sight. Particularly, the appearance looks better even when the floor is greatly inclined, thereby causing the clearance between the support plate and the furniture body to expand.

It is preferable in the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention that the support plate includes a frame-like second enclosure hanging down from the furniture body toward the support plate and adapted to enclose the adjusting bolt and the fixing bolt outside or inside of the first enclosure.

Otherwise, it is preferable in the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention that the support plate includes a frame-like second enclosure elevated from the support plate toward the furniture body and adapted to enclose the adjusting bolt and the fixing bolt outside or inside of the first enclosure.

In this case, the first and second enclosures protrude from both of the support member and the furniture body, while one is offset inside of the other or vice versa, thereby allowing the adjusting bolt and the fixing bolt to be only minimally exposed from sight.

It is preferable in the table concerning the second aspect of the present invention that it comprises a substantially rectangular top plate; a table body having a plurality of legs for supporting the top plate; and the aforementioned adjusting mechanism arranged between the floor and the legs of the table body.

This table concerning the second aspect of the present invention is allowed to adjust its height and the horizontal degree of the top plate without imparting any damage to the floor by means of the aforementioned adjusting mechanism.

It is preferable in the table concerning the second aspect of the present invention that the legs of the table body are supported with respect to the floor via a plurality of the adjusting mechanisms.

In this case, the respective support member is assigned to each leg of the table body for supporting it. Adjusting the adjusting bolt and fixing bolt for each support member enables to flexibly correspond to the change of inclination of the floor changes.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to a structure for attaching an article, comprising: an engaging groove formed along the horizontal direction on an attaching surface of a structural object and formed vertical to a floor; and a bracket adapted to engage with the engaging groove and to support the article; wherein the engaging groove is formed in such a manner that its inside is vertically wider than its opening and that a recessed area is formed at an upside edge of the opening; and wherein the bracket comprises: a base formed in such a manner as to protrude toward the engaging groove; an upward-directed edge protruding substantially upwards with respect to the base; and a rib adapted to tie an upper surface of the base to a side face of the upward-directed edge, wherein the bracket is adapted to be attached to the attaching surface in such a manner that the rib of the bracket engages with the recessed area of the engaging groove and that the upward-directed edge engages with upside edge of the opening.

In this case, a rib is formed in a bracket. Thus, in the step of attaching the bracket to the attaching surface (engaging groove), it is not allowed to attach the bracket elsewhere other than the recessed area of the engaging groove. Therefore, it is assured that the bracket is attached to this recessed area. In other words, such recess formed at a desired position along the edge of engaging groove allows the bracket (article) to be securely attached to a desired position in the engaging groove. Besides, even if it is hard to identify the position for the bracket engaging with the engaging groove, the rib engages with the recessed area, allowing the workers to recognize that the support member has been attached to a desired position. That is to say, the support member is allowed to be easily and securely attached to a desired position.

The rib allows the upward-directed edge to be linked to the side base more strongly, enabling the support member to endure a heavier load. In other words, a heavier article is allowed to be supported by the support member and fixed thereto.

It is preferable in the structure for attaching an article concerning the third aspect of the present invention that an additional engaging groove is formed to be parallel to the engaging groove; and that a hook is formed on the bracket adapted to engage with the additional engaging groove.

In this case, the additional engaging groove and the hook allow the bracket to engage with the attaching surface. Thus, the article is allowed to be supported by the attaching surface and fixed thereto more stably.

A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a structure for attaching an article, comprising: an engaging groove formed along the horizontal direction on an attaching surface of a structural object and formed vertical to a floor; and a bracket adapted to engage with the engaging groove and to support the article; wherein the engaging groove is formed in such a manner that its inside is vertically wider than its opening and that a convex area is formed at an upside edge of the opening; and wherein the bracket comprises: a base formed in such a manner as to protrude toward the engaging groove; an upward-directed edge protruding substantially upwards with respect to the base; and a recessed area formed on an upper surface of the base, wherein the bracket is adapted to be attached to the attaching surface in such a manner that the recessed area of the bracket engages with the convex area of the engaging groove and that the upward-directed edge engages with upside edge of the opening.

In this case, while a convex area is formed in the engaging groove, a recessed area is formed in the bracket. Accordingly, in the step of attaching the bracket to the recessed area, the convex area mates with the recessed area, allowing the bracket to be attached to a desired position. On the other hand, the bracket is allowed to be attached elsewhere other than the convex area, in the same way as a conventional one. Thus, the bracket is allowed to be securely attached not only to a desired position of the first engaging groove but also to any other position.

TECHNICAL EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

According to the table concerning the first aspect of the present invention, it comprises supporting members having a pair of first set surfaces and a pair of second set surfaces; and a pair of beams having a first bottom surface a second bottom surface. Thus, even if the span of the supporting members broadens and the beam is heavier, the beam is allowed to attach to the supporting member easily. Further, after assembling has been completed, the beam is securely supported by the supporting member and fixed thereto.

According to the adjusting mechanism concerning the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to impart the weight of the furniture to the floor without causing any damage and to easily adjust the height and horizontal degree of the furniture body by means of the adjusting bolt and the fixing bolt.

In addition, according to the table concerning the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily adjust the height and horizontal degree by means of the aforementioned adjusting mechanism.

According to a structure for attaching an article, concerning the third aspect of the present invention, it is assured that the bracket is attached to this recessed area in the engagement groove. In other words, the recess formed at a desired position along the edge of engaging groove allows the bracket (article) to be securely attached to a desired position in the engaging groove.

According to the bracket as a structure for attaching an article, concerning the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to securely attach the bracket not only to a desired position in the engagement groove but also elsewhere.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a perspective view showing an entire table in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 a front view showing an entire table in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 a side view with one partial cross section taken along the line A-A in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 a side view with a partial cross section taken along the line B-B in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 a side view with another partial cross section taken along the line A-A in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 a cross sectional view showing an adjusting mechanism in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 a plan view showing details of a support plate in the adjusting mechanism in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 an illustration showing the step of arranging a support plate in the course of assembling a table in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 an illustration showing the step of fixing beams in the course of assembling a table in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 an illustration showing the step of fixing beams in the course of assembling a table in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 a perspective view showing a table in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 a side view showing a table in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 a cross sectional view taken along the line A-A in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 a cross sectional view taken along the line B-B in FIG. 12.

FIG. 15A a perspective view showing a part of beam in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15B a detailed view showing a short end of the beam in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention (detailed view of Part C in FIG. 15A).

FIG. 16A a front view showing a support member in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16B a side view showing the support member in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention (view taken from the direction of arrow D in FIG. 16A).

FIG. 17 a detailed view showing the supporting member and the beam attached thereto in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10 hereinafter. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a table 1 of this embodiment comprises a flat top plate 10, a pair of beams 20 to support and fix the top plate 10, a pair of supporting members 30 standing on a floor F for supporting and fixing the beams 20, a plurality of adjusting mechanisms 60 each of which is disposed between the supporting member 30 and the floor F and is adapted to adjust the height and horizontal degree. The table 1 is elongated in one direction as a whole.

The supporting members 30 are disposed one by one on both sides of the beam 20 in the longitudinal direction X. The supporting members 30 are formed to be wide in the width direction Y perpendicular, in a plan view, to the longitudinal direction X, supporting a pair of beams 20 disposed in the width direction. Each supporting member 30 consists of a pair of box members 31 each of which is elongated in the width direction Y and both of which are arranged in the same direction and are assembled with each other.

The supporting members have short end plates 30 a detachably attached at both of their short ends in the width direction Y. To complement the shape of a lower surface of each beam 20, an upper part of the supporting member 30 includes, in order from outside to inside in the width direction Y, a pair of substantially horizontal first set surfaces 34A, 34B, a pair of second set surfaces 35A, 35B each of which slopes down from the first set surfaces 34A, 34B, and a pair of third set surfaces 36A, 36B extending substantially horizontally from lower long edges of the second set surfaces 35A, 35B. In accordance with a pair of beams 20, two third set surfaces 36A, 36B constitute a continuous plane 30 b so that an upper part of the supporting member 30 is recessed. Besides, on the third set surfaces 36A, 36B, respectively, a stopper 37 is formed to protrude upwards for engaging with the corresponding beam 20 in the width direction Y. By collecting a pair of box members 31 into a supporting member 30, a liaison groove 30 c extending in the upwards/downwards direction Z is formed in the middle of the supporting members 30 which are elongated in the width direction Y. Thus, cables of electric appliances to be laid on the top plate 10 are allowed to lead to the floor F.

A pair of beams 20 extends to be supported by the supporting members 30, as shown in FIG. 3, such that outer long edges 20 a of the beams 20 in the longitudinal direction X are substantially coplanar with short end plates 30 a of the supporting members 30 and, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, such that the short ends 20 b of the beams 20 protrude outwards with respect to the supporting members 30 in the longitudinal direction X. Referring to FIG. 4, the beam 20 has a top-plate supporting portion 21, which constitutes an upper surface to set the top plate 10, and a sloping portion 22 which constitutes a lower surface sloping down from outside to inside in the width direction Y. Accordingly, a cross section of the beam 20 is substantially a triangle. The short end 20 b of the beams 20 slopes down inwards in the longitudinal direction X with respect to the top-plate supporting portion 21 and is covered by an end cover 20 c. The beam 20 is hollow to restrict its weight while enhancing its rigidity. In the hollow central area of the beam 20, a reinforcing plate 20 d is disposed in the upwards/downwards direction Z to enhance its rigidity more. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, in this embodiment, each beam 20 consists of two beam members 20 e which are connected to each other in the longitudinal direction X via a C-shaped first joint member 20 f and a V-shaped second joint member 20 g, so as to broaden a span between the supporting members 30.

Referring to FIG. 3, each beam 20 has, in sequence from outside to inside in the width direction Y, a pair of substantially horizontal first bottom surfaces 23 facing the first set surface 34A, 34B of the supporting members 30, a pair of second bottom surfaces 24 sloping down from the first bottom surfaces 23 and facing the second set surface 35A, 35B, and a pair of substantially horizontal third bottom surfaces 25 extending from a lower long side of the second bottom surfaces 24 and facing the third set surfaces 36A, 36B. The second bottom surface 24 constitutes a part of slope portion 22 of the beam 20. A pair of beams 20 is supported by the supporting members 30 in such a manner that the first bottom surfaces 23, the second bottom surfaces 24 and the third bottom surfaces 25 are respectively abutted to the first set surfaces 34A, 34B, the second set surfaces 35A, 35B and the third set surfaces 36A, 36B.

At the lower part of the beam 20, an interlock tab 26 is disposed to protrude inwards in the width direction Y. The interlock tab 26 engages with the stopper 37 of the supporting member 30, thereby allowing the beam 20 to interlock in the width direction Y.

On one hand, a threaded hole 28 is formed in the first bottom surface 23 and in the second bottom surface 24 of the beam 20, respectively.

On the other hand, an insertion hole 38 is formed in such a manner as to reach down to the box member 31, in the first set surface 34A, 34B and in the second set surfaces 35A, 35B of the supporting member 30, corresponding to the respective threaded hole 28 of the beam 20. A pair of beam 20 is fixed to the first set surfaces 34A, 34B and the second set surfaces 35A, 35B of the supporting members 30 in such a manner that a plurality of beam-fixing bolts 40 mates with the threaded holes 28 via the insertion holes 38 from inside of the box member 31.

Referring to FIG. 1, the top plate 10 is composed of plate members 11 divided into four as a whole, i.e. into two in the longitudinal direction X and into two in the width direction Y. Referring to FIG. 3, each plate member 11 is supported by the beam 20 in such a manner that its lower surface sets on the top-plate supporting portion 21. Referring to FIG. 4, a plurality of threaded holes 12 are formed side by side along the longitudinal direction X in the lower surface of each plate member 11. In turn, along the longitudinal direction X of the beam 20, a plurality of insertion holes 29 are formed in the upwards/downwards direction Z to pass through the beam 20, which correspond to the position of the threaded holes 12. Each plate member 11 is fixed to the beam 20 in such a manner that the top-plate fixing bolt 41 mates with the threaded hole 12 of the respective plate member 11 via the insertion hole 29 from the lower side.

Attached to the lower surface of each plate member 11 are a first engagement piece 13 and a second engagement piece 14. Both of these first and second engagement pieces 13, 14 protrude toward inside in the width direction Y. Formed on the top-plate supporting portion 21 of each beam 20 are a first engaging groove 21 a and a second engaging groove 21 b to extend in the longitudinal direction X, corresponding to the first engagement piece 13 and the second engagement piece 14, respectively. Engagement tabs 21 c, 21 d are formed in the first and second engaging grooves 21 a, 21 b, respectively, to protrude from their inner long sides to outside in the width direction Y. While each plate member 11 is supported by the beam 20, the first and second engagement pieces 13, 14 are inserted into the first and second engaging grooves 21 a, 21 b, respectively, and mesh with the engagement tabs 21 c, 21 d, respectively. In this way, each plate member 11 is securely fixed to the beam 20 in combination with the fixation by the top-plate fixing bolt 41.

For each plate member 11, a notch 11 a is formed at an inner side in the width direction Y. In the state where both of plate members 11 are collected and fixed to the beams 20, a cable channel 10 a is formed at the middle area of the top plate 10 in the width direction Y to communicate with the notch 11 a vertically and to extend in the longitudinal direction X. Ordinarily, a cable channel 10 a is closed by the top plate cover 10 b. In each side surface 20 i of a pair of the beams facing each other, a groove for receiving a cover 20 h is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction X. A support member 15 extending upwards is attached to each groove for receiving a cover 20 h. Supported by the support member 15, the top plate cover 20 b closes the cable channel 10 a. The top plate cover 10 b is detachably attached to the support member 15. Thus, while the top plate cover 10 b is detached, a cable of electric appliances to be used on the top plate 10 is allowed to lie inside a cable space 43 formed between a pair of beams 20 via a cable channel 10 a. A bottom of the cable space 43 is closed by a bottom plate 43 a fitted between a pair of beams 20, enabling a cable to lie on the bottom plate 43 a. A cable of electric appliances arranged in the cable space 43 is allowed to connect to a power supply set on the floor F via the liaison groove 30 c.

In this table 1, the top plate 10 is supported by the top-plate supporting surfaces 21 of a pair of beams 20, which in turn is supported by the supporting members 30 and fixed thereto. Accordingly, even if the interval between the supporting members 30 broadens, the top plate can be securely supported in such a manner as not to bend even with minimum thickness. The beam 20 has a slope portion 22, enabling the size of the top-plate supporting portion 21 in the width direction Y to be greater. The beam 20 is arranged such that its long side surface 20 a is substantially coplanar with the short end of the supporting member 30. Consequently, the top plate 10 is allowed to be securely supported within a wider range in the width direction Y and is prevented from bending in the width direction Y more effectively. On the other hand, a long-side outer surface of slope portion 22 of each beam 20 is flat in the longitudinal direction X. Thus, even when the users are seated side by side in the longitudinal direction X, the beam 20 does not interfere with their legs advancing under the top plate 10.

The beam 20 is disposed to extend outwards with respect to the supporting member 30 in the longitudinal direction X in such a manner that its short end surface 20 b is inclined. Thus, the top plate 10 is allowed to be securely supported within a wider range in the longitudinal direction X and is prevented from bending in the longitudinal direction X more effectively. Furthermore, even when the users are seated side by side in the width direction Y and their legs advance under the top plate 10, the beam 20 and the supporting member 30 do not interfere with their legs advancing under the top plate 10.

The beam 20 supporting the top plate 10 is securely supported by the sloping second set surface 35A, 35B as well as by the substantially horizontal first set surface 34A, 34B and the third set surface 36A, 36B. Particularly in this embodiment, a pair of supporting members 30 has the substantially horizontal first set surface 34A, 34B and the third set surface 36A, 36B on both of the upper and lower long edges of the sloping second set surface 35A, 35B, so that the beams 20 are supported more stably. Besides, each of the second set surfaces 35A, 35B, corresponding to a pair of beams 20, respectively, slopes from outside to inside in the width direction Y in such a manner that its slope direction is different from each other. While the beam 20 is supported by the sloping second set surface 35A, 35B of the supporting members, horizontal force acts on the supporting member 30. However, two horizontal forces generated by each beam 20 cancel mutually, so that a pair of beams 20 is supported by the supporting member more stably. In addition, the beam-fixing bolts 40 fix the beams 20 at different positions, i.e. at the first set surfaces 34A, 34B and at the second set surfaces 35A, 35 b of the supporting members 30, allowing the beams 20 to be supported by the supporting member more stably.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in this embodiment, a pair of adjusting mechanisms 60 is disposed in the width direction Y in such a manner as to correspond to a pair of box members 31 constituting the supporting member 30. Each adjusting mechanism 60 comprises a support plate 61 disposed under the supporting member 60 as well as on the floor F, an adjusting bolt 62 disposed to protrude from the support plate to the supporting member 30, and an adjusting nut 63 disposed on the bottom plate 30 d of the supporting member 30, with which the adjusting bolt 62 will mate. Further, each adjusting mechanism 60 comprises a fixing bolt 64 protruding downwards from the bottom plate 30 d and a fixing nut 65 disposed on the bottom plate 30 d of the supporting member 30 and with which the adjusting bolt 62 will mate.

Referring to FIG. 7, the support plate 61 is broadened in the width direction Y corresponding to the box member 31, while a notch 61 a is formed to complement the shape of the liaison groove 30 c of the supporting member 30. On the other hand, referring to FIG. 5, in this embodiment, each adjusting mechanism includes two adjusting bolts 62 aligned linearly in the width direction Y.

Each adjusting bolt 62 has a screw body 62 a where a male thread is formed; a smaller-diameter portion 62 b formed at a base of the screw body 62 a and having a diameter smaller than that of the latter; and an engagement portion 62 c formed at a base of the small-diameter portion 62 b and having a flange-shaped greater diameter. Besides, formed at a head of the screw body 62 a is a recess for manipulation 62 d enabling a hexagonal wrench to be fitted to apply torque.

Attached on an upper surface of the support plate 61 is an engagement plate 66 by means of a bolt 66 a. The engagement plate 66 is composed of a substantially rectangular thin member. Formed in the engagement plate 66 by press processing is an engagement portion 67 whose lower surface is recessed and upper surface is convex at a tightening position of the bolt 62. Consequently, a space 67 a is formed between the support plate 61 and the engagement portion 67 of the engagement plate 66. Bored in the engagement portion 67 is a through hole 67 b passing through from an upper side to a lower side of the engagement portion 67, and of which internal diameter is smaller than an external diameter of the screw body 62 a of the bolt 62. The smaller-diameter portion 62 b is inserted into the through hole 67 b. Then, the engagement portion 62 c whose diameter is greater than an inner diameter of the through hole 67 b is arranged inside the space 67 a. Because the base end of the screw body 62 a is abutted to the upper surface of the engagement plate 66, the bolt 62 is supported with respect to the support plate 61 in such a manner that its tip end is capable of tilting and rotating about its axis.

The adjusting nut 63 is welded to a lower surface of the bottom plate 30 d of the supporting member 30 so as to form a threaded adjustment hole 63 a with which the adjusting bolt 62 will mate. In addition, at the position where the adjusting nut 63 is welded in the bottom plate 30 d of the supporting member 30, an insertion hole 30 e is formed to communicate with inside of the supporting member 30, such that the tip of the adjusting bolt 62 mating with the threaded adjustment hole 63 a protrudes from this adjusting nut 63.

Similarly, a fixing nut 65 is welded to the lower surface of the bottom plate 30 d of the supporting member 30 to form a threaded fixation hole 65 a with which the fixing bolt 62 will mate. Additionally, an insertion hole 30 f is formed to communicate with inside of the supporting member 30 at the position where the fixation nut 65 is welded in the bottom plate 30 d of the supporting member 30. The fixing bolt 64 mates with the threaded fixation hole 65 a in such a manner that its head 64 a is positioned inside the supporting member 30 and that its tip 64 b is positioned between the supporting member 30 and support plate 61. Thus, by applying torque to the head 64 a positioned inside the supporting member 30 with a wrench and the like, the tip 64 b is allowed to move from the side of supporting member 30 to the side of support plate 61 and to abut to the support plate 61. In this embodiment, each adjusting mechanism 60 is provided with two sets of the fixing bolt 64 and fixation nut 65 to be aligned in the longitudinal direction X crossing the width direction Y which is an alignment direction of two adjusting bolts 62.

The adjusting mechanism 60 has a frame-like first enclosure 68 elevated from the support plate 61 toward the supporting member 30 and a frame-like second enclosure 69 hanging down from the bottom plate 30 d toward the support plate 61. The first enclosure 68 is formed to enclose the adjusting bolt 62 and the fixing bolt 64 along the circumference of the support plate 66 such that a clearance is formed vertically between the first enclosure 68 and the bottom plate 30 d of the supporting member 30. The second enclosure 69 is formed to hang from the side surface of the supporting member 30. A space is formed vertically between the second enclosure 69 and the support plate 61. The second enclosure 69 is formed to doubly enclose the adjusting bolt 62 and the fixing bolt 64 by surrounding the first enclosure 68 at its outside both in the longitudinal direction X and in the width direction Y.

The assembling steps of the table 1 in this embodiment will be explained hereinafter. Referring to FIG. 8, in the first place, a pair of supporting members 30 is disposed side by side on the floor F, while a predetermined interval is kept.

In the second place, the adjustment step is carried out for each adjusting mechanism 60 by means of the adjusting bolt. Namely, torque is applied to the adjusting bolt 62 by a hexagonal wrench to be inserted from the inside of the supporting member 30 to the recess for manipulation 62 d of the adjusting bolt 62. The adjusting nut 63 with which the adjusting bolt 62 will mate is supported by the supporting member 30 and is engaged with the engagement plate 66 fixed to the support plate 61. Accordingly, the supporting member 30 can move up and down with respect to the support plate 61, depending on the rotation direction of the adjusting bolt 62, and can tilt as a whole in the width direction Y. Then, by rotating each adjusting bolt 62 and thus moving the supporting member up and down, the first set surfaces 34A, 34B and the third set surface 36A, 36B is kept horizontal while the height of each supporting member facing each other is adjusted to be substantially equal. In this embodiment, each supporting member is equipped with two adjusting mechanism 60 so that four adjusting bolt 62 must be adjusted in total for two supporting members. In this stage, the supporting member 30 is supported only by the adjusting bolt 62 and thus capable of tilting in the longitudinal direction X.

Then, while the horizontal degree of the supporting member 30 is adjusted in the longitudinal direction X, inside the supporting member 30 two fixing bolt 64 is abutted to the support plate 61 by wrenching its head 64 a. As a result, the supporting member 30 is supported with respect to the supporting member 61 by the fixing bolt 64 as well as by the adjusting bolt 62 a and its tilting in the longitudinal direction X is restricted. Therefore, the top plate 10 becomes substantially horizontal, even if the floor f is inclined.

The referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the beams 20 are collected near the supporting members 30 in accordance with the direction of the supporting members 30 disposed. Next, the assembled beams 30 is lifted and moved from outside to inside in the width direction Y so that it is positioned over the supporting members 30. After the beam 20 is roughly positioned with respect to the supporting members 30, the beam 20 is lowered. While the supporting members 30 has the sloping second set surfaces 35A, 35B, the beam has the sloping second bottom surface 24 corresponding to the sloping second set surfaces 35A, 35B. Therefore, even if the beam 20 is offset with respect to the beam 30 in the width direction Y, the second bottom surface 24 of the beam 20 abuts the second set surfaces 35A, 35B of the supporting members 30 and then slides down along the second set surfaces 35A, 35B on account of its weight. Thus, the beam 20 is guided into a predetermined fixation position on the upper part of the supporting members 30 without the assembling workers' fine tuning. In this case, the direction along which the workers lift and move the beam 20 is the same as the direction along which each second set surfaces 35A, 35B slopes down are the same, which both head from outside to inside in the width direction Y. Accordingly, the beam 20 is guided to a predetermined fixation position with no change of moving direction of the beam 20 which the workers have lifted, enabling the beam 20 to attach to the supporting members 30 more easily.

When the beams 20 are guided to the predetermined fixation position, the first bottom surfaces 23 are abutted to the first set surfaces 34A, 34B of the supporting member 30 which are substantially horizontal. Consequently, the beams 20 are securely supported by the supporting member 30, while accurately positioned in the predetermined position at the upper part of the supporting member 30.

Particularly in this embodiment, the third bottom surfaces 25 of the beam 20 are also abutted to the third set surfaces 36A, 36B which are substantially horizontal. Besides, the interlock tab 26 of the beam 20 is engaged by the stopper 37 of the supporting member 30 in the width direction Y. Thus, the beam 20 is supported by the supporting member 30, while more securely positioned.

Then, the short end plate 30 a is removed from the supporting member 30. The beam fixing bolt 40 is tightened to mate with the threaded hole 28 of the beam 20, by inserting through the insertion hole 38 from inside of the box member 31 of the supporting member 30. As a result, the beam 20 is supported by the supporting member 30. Further, while a pair of beams 20 is fixed to the supporting member 30, each beam 20 is made to engage with the bottom plate 43 a, thereby closing a bottom of the cable space 43.

In the next place, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the top place will be attached. In the first place, the first and second engagement pieces 13, 14 are secured to the lower surface of each plate member 11 which constitutes the top plate 10. In this case, each plate member 11 is slightly offset outside in the width direction Y with respect to a predetermined position. Then, each plate member 11 is made to slide from outside to inside in the width direction Y, thereby allowing the first and second engagement pieces 13, 14 to fit into the first and second engaging grooves 21, 21 b and to engage with the engagement tabs 21 c, 21 d, respectively. Consequently, the plate member 11 is securely positioned both in the upwards/downwards direction Z and in the width direction Y. Again, the top-plate fixing bolt 41 is inserted through the insertion holes 29 from the lower side of the beam 20, allowing the top plate 10 to be fixed to the beam 20. In this way, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the supporting members 30, the beams 20 and the top plate 10 are integrated with each other. Finally, the support member 15 is made to engage with the groove for receiving a cover 20 h of the beam 20 and then the top plate cover 10 b is attached to the support member 15, thereby closing the cable channel 10 a of the top plate 10 and completing the assembling.

In the table 1 of this embodiment, which comprises the supporting member 30, the beam 20 and the top plate 10 as explained, even if the span of the supporting members 30 broadens and the beam 20 is heavier, the beam 20 is allowed to attach to the supporting member 30 easily. Further, after assembling has been completed, the beam 20 is securely supported by the supporting member 30 and fixed thereto.

Moreover, in the table 1 of this embodiment, after the adjusting bolt 62 has been adjusted, the adjusting mechanism 60 is allowed to easily adjust the height and horizontal degree of the supporting member 30 only by abutting the fixing bolt 64. The load imparted to the adjusting bolt 62 and the fixing bolt 64 is supported by the floor F via the substantially rectangular support plate 61. Therefore, the load imparted by the top plate 10, the beam 20 and the supporting member 30 is dispersed over the whole lower surface of the support plate 61, so that the floor F is prevented from being damaged.

There is no need for the adjusting mechanism to be equipped with two adjusting bolt 62. The adjusting mechanism is allowed to include only one adjusting bolt 62. In this case, including two fixing bolts 64 allows the labor for adjustment to be minimum, while the number of member for supporting the top plate 10, the beam 20 and the supporting member 30 is allowed to increase.

Besides, in this embodiment, one supporting member 30 is provided with two adjusting mechanisms 60 arranged in the width direction Y. Thus, even how the floor F is inclined immediately under the supporting member 30 changes in the shape of mountain or valley, the adjusting mechanism flexibly corresponds and is abutted to the floor F via the lower surface of each support plate 61, thereby enabling the supporting member 30 to be supported while the height and horizontal degree is adjusted. It is not necessary to limit the number of adjusting mechanism 60 arranged in the supporting member 30 to two as described hereinbefore. It is allowed to arrange three or more or to arrange only one adjusting mechanism. The former is useful for flexibly corresponding to how the floor F is inclined. On the other hand, the latter is useful for adjusting more easily with minimum frequency of adjusting the adjusting bolt 62.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the adjusting mechanism 60 is provided the first enclosure 68, so that the adjusting bolt 62 and the fixing bolt 64 is only minimally exposed from sight, thereby allowing the appearance to be favorable. Particularly, the adjusting mechanism 60 of this embodiment further is provided with the second enclosure 69, even the exposure via the clearance between the first enclosure 68 and the supporting member 30 is prohibited, thereby allowing to obtain more favorable appearance. It is allowed to provide either the first enclosure 68 or the second enclosure 69.

While above description is for the table 1 which is an example of furniture equipped with the adjusting mechanism 40, the technical coverage of the present invention is not limited to this. The adjusting mechanism of the present invention is applicable to various furniture such as shelves, partitions and the like including other tables of different structure. This adjusting mechanism is particularly useful for supporting the heavy furniture of greater length and width and for adjusting the height and horizontal degree thereof.

Second Embodiment

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 17, the second embodiment will be described hereinafter. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, a table 101 comprises a flat top plate 111, a pair of beams 120 to support and fix the top plate 110, a pair of supporting members 130 standing on a floor F for supporting and fixing the beams 120, a plurality of adjusting mechanisms 160 each of which is disposed between the supporting member 130 and the floor F and is adapted to adjust the height and horizontal degree. The table 101 is elongated in one direction as a whole.

The supporting members 130 are disposed one by one on both sides of the beam 120 in the longitudinal direction X. The supporting members 30 are formed to be wide in the width direction Y perpendicular, in a plan view, to the longitudinal direction X, supporting a pair of beams 120 disposed in the width direction Y. Each supporting member 130 consists of a pair of box members 131 each of which is elongated in the width direction Y and both of which are arranged in the same direction and are put together with each other. The supporting members 130 have side plates 130 a detachably attached at both of their long sides extending in the width direction Y.

To complement the shape of a lower surface of each beam 120, an upper part of the supporting member 130 includes, in order from outside to inside in the width direction Y, a pair of substantially horizontal first set surfaces 134A, 134B, a pair of second set surfaces 135A, 135B each of which slopes down from the first set surfaces 134A, 134B, and a pair of third set surfaces 136A, 36B continued substantially horizontally from lower long side ends of the second set surfaces 135A, 135B. To complement the shape of lower surfaces of a pair of beams 120, two third set surfaces 136A, 136B constitute a continuous plane 130 b so that an upper part of the supporting member 130 is recessed wholly. In addition, on the third set surfaces 136A, 136B, respectively, a stopper 137 is formed to protrude upwards for engaging with the corresponding beam 120 in the width direction Y. By collecting a pair of box members 31 into a supporting member 130, a liaison groove 130 c extending in the upwards/downwards direction Z is formed in the middle of the supporting members 130 which is elongated in the width direction Y. Thus, cables of electric appliances to be laid on the top plate 110 are allowed to lead to the floor F.

A pair of beams 20 extends to be supported by the supporting members 30, such that outer long sides 120 a of the beams 120 in the longitudinal direction X are substantially coplanar with short end plates 130 a of the supporting members 130 and, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, such that the short ends 20 b of the beams 120 protrude outwards with respect to the supporting members 130 in the longitudinal direction X. Further, the short end 120 b of the beams 120 slopes down inwards in the longitudinal direction X with respect to the top-plate supporting portion 121 and is covered by an end cover 120 c.

Referring to FIG. 14, the beam 120 has side surfaces 120 e each of which is directed in the upwards/downwards direction Z, a top-plate supporting portion 121, which constitutes an upper surface to set the top plate 110, and a sloping portion 122 which constitutes a lower surface sloping down from outside to inside in the width direction Y. Accordingly, a cross section of the beam 120 is substantially a triangle. The beam 120 is hollow to restrict its weight while enhancing its rigidity. In the hollow central area of the beam 120, a reinforcing plate 120 d is disposed in the upwards/downwards direction Z to enhance its rigidity more.

Referring back to FIG. 13, each beam 120 has, in sequence from outside to inside in the width direction Y, a pair of substantially horizontal first bottom surfaces 123 facing the first set surface 134A, 134B of the supporting members 130, a pair of second bottom surfaces 124 sloping down from the first bottom surfaces 123 and facing the second set surface 135A, 35B, and a pair of substantially horizontal third bottom surfaces 125 extending from a lower long side of the second bottom surfaces 24 and facing the third set surfaces 136A, 136B. The second bottom surface 124 constitutes a part of slope portion 122. Thus, a pair of beams 120 is supported by the supporting members 130 in such a manner that the first bottom surfaces 123, the second bottom surfaces 124 and the third bottom surfaces 125 are respectively abutted to the first set surfaces 134A, 134B, the second set surfaces 135A, 135B and the third set surfaces 136A, 136B.

At the respective lower part of a pair of beams 120, an interlock tab 126 is disposed to protrude inwards in the width direction Y. The interlock tab 126 engages with the stopper 137 of the supporting member 130, thereby allowing the beam 120 to interlock in the width direction Y. On one hand, a threaded hole 28 is formed in the first bottom surface 123 and in the second bottom surface 124, respectively. On the other hand, an insertion hole 138 is formed in such a manner as to reach down to the box member 131, in the first set surface 134A, 134B and in the second set surfaces 135A, 135B of the supporting member 130, corresponding to the respective threaded hole 128. A pair of beams 120 is fixed to the first set surfaces 34A, 34B and the second set surfaces 135A, 135B of the supporting members 130 in such a manner that a plurality of beam-fixing bolts 140 mates with the threaded holes 128 via the insertion holes 138 from inside of the box member 131.

A pair of adjusting mechanisms 160 is disposed in the width direction Y in such a manner as to correspond to a pair of box members 131 constituting the supporting member 130. Each adjusting mechanism 160 comprises a support plate 161 disposed under the supporting member 160 as well as on the floor F; and a plurality of adjuster 162 disposed between the supporting member 130 and the support plate 161. On account of the adjusting mechanism 160, the height and horizontal degree of the supporting member 130 is allowed to be adjusted even if the floor F is inclined.

The top plate 110 is composed of plate members 111 divided into four as a whole, i.e. into two in the longitudinal direction X and into two in the width direction Y (see FIG. 11). Each plate member 111 is supported by the beam 120 in such a manner that its lower surface sets on the top-plate supporting portion 121.

Besides, referring to FIG. 14, a plurality of threaded holes 12 are formed side by side along the longitudinal direction X in the lower surface of each plate member 11. In turn, along the longitudinal direction X of the beam 120, a plurality of insertion holes 219 are formed in the upwards/downwards direction Z to pass through the beam 120, which correspond to the position of the threaded holes 112.

Attached to the lower surface of each plate member 111 are a first engagement piece 113 and a second engagement piece 114. Both of these first and second engagement pieces 113, 114 protrude toward inside in the width direction Y. Formed on the top-plate supporting portion 121 of each beam 120 are a first engaging groove 121 a and a second engaging groove 121 b to extend in the longitudinal direction X, corresponding to the first engagement piece 113 and the second engagement piece 114, respectively. Engagement tabs 121 c, 121 d are formed in the first and second engaging grooves 121 a, 121 b, respectively, to protrude from their inner long sides to outside in the width direction Y. While each plate member 111 is supported by the beam 120, the first and second engagement pieces 113, 114 are inserted into the first and second engaging grooves 121 a, 121 b, respectively, and mesh with the engagement tabs 121 c, 211 d, respectively. In this way, each plate member 111 is securely fixed to the beam 120 in combination with the fixation by the top-plate fixing bolt 141.

For each plate member 11, a notch 111 a is formed at an inner side in the width direction Y. While both of plate members 111 are collected and fixed on the beams 120, a cable channel 110 a is formed at the middle area of the top plate 110 in the width direction Y to communicate with the notch 111 a vertically and to extend in the longitudinal direction X. Ordinarily, a cable channel 110 a is closed by the top plate cover 153. In each long side surface 120 e of a pair of the beams facing each other, a plurality of grooves is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction X. A support member 115 extending upwards is attached to this groove (the details will be described later). Supported by the support member 115, the top plate cover 153 closes the cable channel 110 a. The top plate cover 153 is detachably and rotatably attached to the support member 15. Thus, while the top plate cover 153 is detached, a cable of electric appliances to be used on the top plate 110 is allowed to lie inside a cable space 143 formed between a pair of beams 120 via a cable channel 110 a.

A bottom of the cable space 143 is closed by a bottom plate 143 a fitted between a pair of beams 120, enabling a cable to lie on the bottom plate 143 a. While the beams 120 are fixed to the supporting members 130, a cable of electric appliances arranged in the cable space 143 is allowed to connect to a power supply set on the floor F via the liaison groove 130 c. A blinder cover 154 is fit to a clearance between two top-plate covers 153 facing each other in width direction Y so as to close this clearance. The blinder cover 154 is substantially C-shaped and is elongated in the longitudinal direction X in such a manner as to engage with the support member 115.

Hereinafter, how the supporting member 115 is attached to the beam 120 will be described. Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, formed on the long side surface 120 e of the beam 120, a plurality of grooves extending substantially horizontally in the longitudinal direction X. Hereinafter, the groove formed upmost in the upwards/downwards direction Z will called as a first engaging groove 171. In the first engaging groove 171, an opening 172 is formed in such a manner that an upward-directed edge 115 a of the support member 115, which will be described later, is allowed to insert. In turn, in an innermost recess of the opening 172, a hollow 173 is formed to communicate with the opening 172. This hollow 173 expands upwards in the upwards/downwards direction Z, so that a hanging edge 172 a is positioned upward of the opening 172. Again, formed at a plurality of predetermined spots in the hanging edge 172 a is a plurality of lower-directed dents 172 b.

Formed downwards of the first engaging groove 171 is an attachment groove 174 extending substantially horizontally in the longitudinal direction X. In a second engaging groove 175, an opening 176 is formed in such a manner that an upward-directed edge 115 a of the support member 115, which will be described later, is allowed to insert. In turn, in an innermost recess of the opening 176, a hollow 177 is formed to communicate with the opening 176. This hollow 177 is wider in the upwards/downwards direction Z than the opening 176, so that a hanging edge 176 a is positioned upward of the opening 176.

Referring to FIGS. 16A and 16B, the support member 115 is made of ABS resin and is L-shaped. Considering the support member 115 attached to the long side surface 120 e of the beam 120, it has a side base 115 b protruding outwardly in the width direction Y from the long side surface 120 e. On one hand, the side base 115 b has an upward-directed edge 115 a, an attachment edge 115 c and a hook 115 d all of which are formed at its side engaging with the long side surface 120 e. On the other hand, the side base 115 b has a support edge 115 e formed to protrude upwards in the upwards/downwards direction Z at a side opposite to the side engaging with the long side surface 120 e. The upward-directed edge 115 a an attachment edge 115 c and a hook 115 d are disposed substantially parallel in the upwards/downwards direction Z. Yet, an upper surface of a tip of the hook 115 d is bumped, enabling the support member 115 to engage with the hanging edge 176 a of the second engaging groove 175.

At an upper portion of the support edge 115 e, a support apex 115 f with circular cross section is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction, which supports and fixes the top plate cover 153 and also plays a role of its rotation axis. Besides, a support portion 115 g capable of supporting the top plate cover 153 protrudes obliquely upward from an upper part of the support edge 115 e toward outside in the width direction Y, while abutted to a lower surface of the top plate cover 153. Additionally, a supporting recessed portion 115 h capable of supporting the blinder cover 154 is formed at the upper part of the support edge 115 e and inside of the support apex 115 f in the width direction Y.

A rib 115 k is formed to tie an upper surface 115 i of the side base 115 b in the support member 115 to an inner side surface 115 j in the width direction Y of the upward-directed edge 115 a. The rib 115 k has the length in the longitudinal direction X and the height in the upwards/downwards direction Z substantially equal to those of the dents 172 b of the beam 120. The size of the attachment edge 115 c is substantially equal to that of the attachment groove 174. Further, the hook 115 d is shaped such that it is fitted to the opening 176 of the second engaging groove 175 of the beam 120 and that it engages with the hanging edge 176 a.

(The Way to Assemble a Table)

The way to assemble the table 101 will be explained roughly hereinafter.

In the first place, the supporting members 130 are disposed at a predetermined position on the floor F where the table 101 is planned to be set. In this case, the height and horizontal degree of two supporting members 130 are previously adjusted by the adjusting mechanism 160. While the supporting members 30 are disposed, the beams 120 are bridged between two supporting members 130 are fastened thereto by means of the beam-fixing bolts 140. Then, the first bottom surfaces 123 of the beams 20 are abutted to the first set surface 134A, 134B of the supporting members 130. Similarly, the second bottom surfaces 124 are abutted to the second set surfaces 135A, 135B. Additionally, the third bottom surfaces 125 are abutted to the third set surfaces 136A, 136B. Moreover, the interlock tab 126 of the beam 120 engages with the stopper 137 of the supporting member 130 and is supported thereby while securely positioned. In case that the beam-fixing bolt 140 is tightened, the short end plate 130 a of the supporting member is removed. Additionally, while a pair of beams 120 is secured, the bottom of the cable space 140 is closed in such a manner that the bottom plate 143 a mates with the beams 120.

In the next place, the plate member 111 of the top plate 110 is set on the beam 120. In the beginning, the first engagement piece 113 and the second engagement piece 114 are attached to the lower surface of each plate member 11 which constitutes the top plate 110. Then, each plate member 111 is set on the top plate 110. In this case, each plate member 111 is slightly offset outside in the width direction Y with respect to a predetermined position. Next, each plate member 111 is made to slide from outside to inside in the width direction Y, thereby allowing the first and second engagement pieces 113, 114 to fit to the first and second engaging grooves 121, 121 b and to engage with the engagement tabs 121 c, 121 d, respectively. Consequently, the plate member 111 is securely positioned both in the upwards/downwards direction Z and in the width direction Y. Further, the top-plate fixing bolt 141 is inserted through the insertion holes 129 from the lower side of the beam 120, allowing the top plate 110 to be fixed to the beam 120. In this way, the supporting members 30, the beams 20 and the top plate 10 are integrated with each other.

In the next place, referring to FIG. 17, the supporting member 115 is attached to the side surface 120 e of the beam 120. To attach the supporting member 115 to the beam 120, the supporting 115 is inserted to the first engaging groove 171 obliquely downward, allowing the rib 115 k of the support member 115 to the dents 172 b formed in the hanging edge 172 a of the first engaging groove 171 of the beam 120. After the rib 115 k of the support member 115 has been inserted to engage with the dents 172 b formed in the hanging edge 172 a, the support member 115 is rotated downwards, allowing the upward-directed edge 115 a of the support member 115 to engage with the hanging edge 172 a, the support member 115. In this case, the attachment edge 115 c of the support member 115 is fitted and abutted to the attachment groove 174 of the beam 120 such that the hook 115 d of the support member 115 engage with the hanging edge 176 a of the second engaging groove 175 of the beam 120. Subsequently, the support member 115 is supported by the beam 120 and fixed thereto at a desired position.

Finally, after the top plate covers 153 has been mounted to the upper part of the support member, the blinder cover 154 is attached to close the clearance between a pair of top plate covers 153, allowing the assembling of the table 101 to be completed.

In the table 101 of this embodiment, in case that the support member 115 is attached to the side surface 120 e (first engaging groove 171) of the beam 120, the rib 115 k formed on the support member 115 prohibits the support member 115 from being attached elsewhere other than the dents 172 b of the first engaging groove 171, allowing the support member 115 to be securely attached to the dent 172 b. Namely, forming the dents 17 b at a desired position of the hanging edge 172 a of the first engaging groove 171 allows the support member 115 to be attached to a desired position in the first engagement 171.

Besides, even if it is hard to identify the position for the support member 115 engaging with the first engaging groove 171, the rib 115 k engages with the dents 172 b, allowing the workers to recognize that the support member 115 has been attached to a desired position. That is to say, the support member 115 is allowed to be easily and securely attached to a desired position.

The rib 115 k allows the upward-directed edge 115 a to be linked to the side base 115 b more strongly, enabling the support member 115 to endure a heavier load. In other words, a heavier article (the top plate cover 153) is allowed to be supported by the support member 115 and fixed thereto.

Additionally, while the hook 115 d is formed in the support member 115, the second engaging groove 175 is formed in the side surface 120 e of the beam 120. Thus, the support member 115 engages the beam 120 more securely. In other words, a heavier article (the top plate cover 153) is allowed to be supported by the support member 115 and fixed thereto.

The technical extent of the present invention is not limited to above embodiments. Any modification added to above embodiments is also encompassed within such an extent as long as it is not consistent with the essence of the present invention.

For example, while in above embodiments a table is composed of four plate members, it may be composed of five or more plate members.

In addition, while in above embodiments a table belongs to a face-to-face type, it may belong to other types.

Furthermore, while above embodiments refers to a structure for attaching a support member to a beam of table, the equivalent structure can be applied to any circumstances which are comparable to above embodiments, including a side surface of a cabinet such as a shelf.

Besides, while in above embodiments a supporting member is made of resin, it may be made of metal.

While in above embodiment, a rib is formed on a supporting member and a dent is formed in a side surface (first engaging groove) of the beam, a convex area is formed in the first engaging groove and a recessed area is formed in the support member. Then, the support member is attached to a side surface (first engaging groove) of the beam in such a manner that the convex area mates with the recessed area, allowing the support member to be attached to a desired position. On the other hand, the support member is allowed to be attached elsewhere other than the convex area, in the same way as a conventional one. Thus, the support member is allowed to be securely attached not only to a desired position of the first engaging groove but also to any other position.

Hereinbefore, the embodiments of the present invention have been explained with reference to the accompanied drawings. It should be reminded that the concrete contents of the present invention are not limited to above embodiments and that it includes any modification which does not depart from the essence of the present invention.

A table of the present invention comprises supporting members having a pair of first set surfaces and a pair of second set surfaces; and a pair of beams having a pair of first bottom surfaces and a pair of second bottom surfaces, enabling heavier beams to be easily mounted to the supporting members having a longer span between them. Further, after the table has been assembled, the beam is securely supported by the supporting members and fixed thereto. 

1. A table comprising: a substantially plate-like top plate; a pair of beams disposed on a lower surface of said top plate for supporting and fixing said top plate; and a plurality of supporting members disposed in the longitudinal direction of said beams to support and fix the pair of beams, wherein the supporting member has a pair of substantially horizontal first set surfaces and a pair of second set surfaces, said second set surfaces being formed to extend from said first set surfaces with a gradient along a direction of the width of said beams, and wherein the beam has a surface for supporting the top plate, on which the top plate is fixed; a first bottom surface to be abutted to and supported by the first set surface of the supporting member at least within the range supported on the supporting members in the longitudinal direction; and a second bottom surface extending from said first bottom surface with a gradient in such a manner as to be abutted to and supported on the second set surface of the supporting member at least within the range supported by the supporting members in the longitudinal direction.
 2. The table of claim 1, wherein the first set surfaces are formed to continually extending from upper edges of the second set surfaces; wherein the supporting members have a pair of substantially horizontal third set surfaces continually extending from lower edges of the second set surfaces; and wherein the beams have a third bottom surface abutted to and supported by the third set surfaces.
 3. The table of claim 2, wherein on the third set surface of the support body at least one stopper is attached to engage with the beam in the width direction.
 4. The table of claim 1, wherein the pair of beams is secured to the supporting members within the range where the second bottom surfaces are abutted to the second set surfaces.
 5. The table of claim 1, wherein the pair of second set surfaces is formed in such way that their gradient directions are different from each other in the width direction.
 6. The table of claim 5, wherein each of said pair of second set surfaces is formed to extend from the outside toward the inside with a downward gradient, so that an upper surface of said supporting member is recessed.
 7. The table of claim 6, wherein the beam has a gradient surface extending in the longitudinal direction and including the second bottom surface.
 8. The table of claim 1, wherein the outermost supporting member among the supporting members disposed in the longitudinal direction is positioned inside of the short end of the top plate in the longitudinal direction; and wherein the beam is formed to extend outward from the supporting member in the longitudinal direction in such a manner that its short end extends with a gradient inwards from the top plate-supporting surface in the longitudinal direction.
 9. The table of claim 1, wherein the beam is formed to extend in such a manner that its outer long edge in the width direction is substantially coplanar with ends of the support bodies in the width direction.
 10. The table of claim 1, wherein a cable space is formed between the pair of beams; and wherein a cable channel is formed in the top plate in such a manner as to communicate the cable space with a space upside of the top plate. 11-22. (canceled) 